PETALING JAYA: The anti-viral medication, Paxlovid, would be made available soon in private hospitals, says the Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia.

       Its president Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh, thanked Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin, saying that the association was happy that the medication was made free for patients.

       ALSO READ: Free Paxlovid for patients, says KJ

       "However we are working with the government to make it available in private hospitals as the approval to use Paxlovid was obtained two weeks ago.

       "The circular and guidelines were released last week and several private hospitals are making all preparations to complete the required documentation in order to have the anti-viral drug prescribed in their facilities," he said.

       Dr Kuljit urged the public to be patient as the medication may only reach pharmacies at the earliest by end of this week or next week, with several private hospitals trying to obtain the drug from nearby public hospitals if the need arises.

       He said although the number of new Covid-19 cases was low compared to last year, private hospitals should prepare themselves in case there was a surge in infections.

       "Adequate supply of Paxlovid will help in preventing progression of category 3 patients to category 5 and based on our experience last year, the strain to the public and private healthcare is when intensive care unit beds get fully occupied with severe Covid-19 patients in category 4 and 5.

       "Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia will continuously work with the Health Ministry in assisting Covid-19 patients who require treatment, particularly those who can afford private healthcare," added Dr Kuljit.